James A. Schroeder

James A. Schroeder, 49, Leavenworth, Kansas, formerly of Hatley, Wisconsin, unexpectedly passed away on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, at his home.

James was born on January 20, 1975, in Wausau, Wisconsin, to the late Lynda (Nowinsky) Schroeder and Gerald Schroeder.

On September 25, 2004, James married Jessica Draxler, in a beautiful ceremony in Wausau, Wisconsin. Their union was a testament to their deep love and commitment to each other.

Together, they welcomed their cherished son, Jackson James, into the world on April 18, 2012. Named in honor of his father, Jackson was the light of James's life and a source of immense pride and joy.  James is survived by his wife, Jessica, and their son, Jackson.

James proudly served his country with honor and dedication in the United States Army. His military service began at Fort Leonard Wood.  There, he laid the foundation for a career marked by dedication, excellence, and a deep commitment to his country.

James's active duty service spanned eight years, during which he made significant contributions at several key postings. His journey took him to Landstuhl in Germany, where he embraced the opportunity to serve overseas.

His dedication continued at Fort Liberty (formerly Fort Bragg), where he supported critical missions and operations including Airborne School, where he earned his wings and demonstrated his readiness for the challenges ahead. Following this, James was stationed at Fort Gregg-Adams (formerly Fort Lee), followed by Fort Leavenworth, where he transitioned to a civilian role but remained a steadfast advocate for the Army and its values.

After his distinguished service in the military, he continued to serve his country with unwavering commitment as a civilian employee at Fort Leavenworth. James dedicated over 20 more years to a variety of roles with the same steadfast devotion he once showed in uniform. His career was a testament to his enduring sense of duty and deep love for his country.

Outside of work and service to his country, James found his greatest joy in the simple pleasures of life. With a white flour sack towel on his shoulder, his passion for cooking was evident in the way he lovingly prepared meals for family and friends. Every gathering was turned into a special occasion. His culinary skills were nothing short of extraordinary. James took immense pride in trying out new recipes, often inspired by his travels and cookbooks he read on his Nook. Whether it was a classic family recipe, or a dish he had tasted while traveling, James delighted in bringing people together through his cooking.

James had a zest for life that extended to his enjoyment of traveling. He embraced the opportunity to explore new places, always eager to experience different cultures and cuisines. Each trip was a new adventure for his palate, and he would return with fresh ideas to recreate dishes from his journeys, sharing his discoveries with those he loved.

His home was a hub of joy and laughter, thanks to his natural gift for making people laugh. Friends and family alike were drawn to his infectious humor and the genuine warmth he exuded. James had a remarkable gift for bringing joy and laughter into the lives of those around him. His sense of humor and quick-witted remarks were a defining feature of his personality. James had an uncanny ability to brighten any room with his infectious laughter.

Whether he was sharing a clever joke, telling a humorous story, or simply engaging in playful banter, James had a way of making people smile, regardless of their age or mood. His humor was never forced; it flowed naturally and effortlessly, often leaving those around him in fits of laughter. He had a talent for finding light-heartedness in even the most mundane situations, and his playful spirit was a source of comfort and joy to his family and friends.

James’s humor was not only about making others laugh but also about connecting with them on a deeper level. His jokes often carried a warmth and sincerity that reflected his genuine care and affection for those he loved. He had an exceptional ability to lift spirits, ease tensions, and create an atmosphere of camaraderie and cheer.

His knack for humor extended to his role as a host, where his entertaining personality turned gatherings into memorable events.  James made great drinks (including kiddie cocktails for the kids) in his old fashioned glasses with Royal Caribbean stir sticks. These drinks paired with delicious meals that took up the entire dining room table.  His family and friends were his greatest treasure.  Family and friends alike were drawn to his joyful presence, finding solace and happiness in his company. James's laughter was a cherished gift, and his legacy of humor will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who knew him.

He cherished the serene moments standing in front of the kitchen sink and on the front and back porches of his home.  He would unwind to the sounds of “Jimmy’s Jams,” which included classic country, the Rat Pack, or his cherished 90's playlists. These were his peaceful retreats, where he enjoyed the beauty of the world around him and the comfort of his favorite music.

He had great enthusiasm for the Wisconsin Badgers and the Green Bay Packers. This was matched only by his ability to argue sports stats and share his opinions of popular athletes and their ability or inability to perform.

James's legacy is one of love, laughter, and a life well-lived.  In the countless memories of his laugh and smile, in the comforting meals he prepared, and in the endearing lessons of his kindness and strength, James’s spirit endures. His impact on his family, friends, and the world is reflected in the lives he enriched and the joy he brought to those around him. Though he may no longer be with us, the values and warmth he embodied will continue to guide and inspire all who were fortunate enough to be touched by his presence. James will live on through Jessica, Jackson, his family, friends, and those lucky enough to have met him.

Survivors include his wife, Jessica Schroeder and his son, Jackson Schroeder, both of Leavenworth, Kansas, his father, Jerry Schroeder, Hatley, Wisconsin, his sister, Melissa (Mike) Erickson, Birnamwood, Wisconsin, his brother, Peter Schroeder, his twin brother, John (Marne) Schroeder, both of Hatley, Wisconsin, his mother-in-law, Linda (Rob Flegner) Kislow, Weston, Wisconsin, his sisters-in-law, Brandie (Tim) Theiler, Buckeye, Arizona, Heather (Adam) Krueger, Rothschild, Wisconsin and Brittany (Tyson Perry) Kislow, Leavenworth, Kansas.  He is also survived by several nieces and nephews: Gabrielle, Josie, Phoebe, Sophie, Evan, Brooklyn, Brynn, Ashton, Mason, Aria, Bryson and Tevyn.

A memorial service will be at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 8, 2024, at Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 3400 Stewart Avenue, Wausau.  Visitation will begin at 2:00 p.m. until the time of service at the funeral home.  Burial will follow in St. Florian Cemetery, Hatley, with full military honors conducted by the American Legion Post No. 10, Wausau.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.